Lawyers

The Volunteer Lawyers Service was originally established to provide lawyers with an opportunity to use their legal skills in a pro bono capacity outside their regular practices and clientele. One of the appealing factors of this volunteer opportunity is that it is flexible. As a volunteer lawyer you can donate as much or little time as you are able, to accommodate your busy schedule. Any time you can donate to the program is much appreciated as it will aid these organizations in achieving their community development goals. Other benefits include networking opportunities, promoting the positive image of the legal profession, advertising your legal skills and broadening your personal areas of interest.

If you are interested in this opportunity, please follow the link on this page, fill out a roster form and return it via fax, mail or e-mail to the indicated address. The application form will ask for your contact information, specific areas of interest, preferences, and availability.

You can volunteer in several capacities including:

• working one-on-one with a charitable organization
• conducting a seminar or workshop
• working with a PRO BONO STUDENTS CANADA law students (University of Calgary or University of Edmonton)

Please Note:

• Disbursements and out-of-pocket expenses are the responsibility of the charitable organization, and they are informed of this requirement.
• If you are volunteering on a VLS approved file you are covered under the Alberta Lawyers Insurance Association.
• Practitioners, in-house counsel, lawyers who are retired or on maternity leave are all eligible to volunteer as long as you are in good standing with the Law Society of Alberta.

If you are a non-practicing lawyer, on maternity leave or retired and interested in pro bono work, please contact VLS@pbla.ca for more information.